When it comes to safe intercourse, condoms are everyone’s first choice. They are easily accessible, easy to carry in your pocket or wallet, and easy to use. But are they reliable? Moreover, do you know how to use condoms to avoid pregnancy? The dos and dont’s of using condoms?
Let’s get the answers to everything you need to know about using condoms.
Table of Contents
What are Condoms?
Condoms are small, thin, stretchy pouches made of latex or polyurethane.
Condoms are used during sexual activities to prevent unwanted pregnancies and protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Condoms are easily accessible at drugstores, supermarkets, and health clinics. They come in various sizes, textures, and even flavors, offering choices for different preferences.
Doctor Recommendation: Dr. Junaid Habib Khan is one of the most experienced men’s health specialists in Lahore. With 45 years in the field, he knows best how to handle your problems like a pro.
Benefits of Using Condoms!
Let’s understand why using condoms is a necessity and not a choice;
Protection Against STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections)
Condoms can help protect you and your partner from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and more.
They create a barrier between the private parts and stop germs from passing between them.
Preventing Unwanted Pregnancies
Condoms are excellent at preventing unwanted pregnancies. They work by stopping the sperm from reaching the egg during intercourse.
So, if you’re not ready for a baby yet, condoms can be a reliable option.
Easy to Use
Using condoms is super easy! They come in various shapes and sizes, and all you need to do is roll one over the penis before intercourse.
No Side Effects
Unlike other birth control methods, condoms don’t have side effects because they only act when you use them during intercourse.
They don’t mess with your hormones or affect your body in any other way.
No Prescription Needed
You don’t need a doctor’s prescription to get condoms. They are available at most drugstores, supermarkets, or health clinics, making them easily accessible.
Temporary Use
If you’re not sure about a long-term commitment to birth control, condoms are a good temporary solution.
You can use them when needed and stop whenever you want.
Recommended Read: A List of Birth Control Options for Men!
Dos and Dont’s of Using Condoms!
It’s time to understand how to use condoms safely:
Do Use a New Condom Every Time
Always use a brand-new condom for each sexual encounter. Don’t reuse condoms, as they lose their effectiveness and might break.
Do Check the Expiry Date
Before using a condom, check the expiration date on the packaging. Using an expired condom might not protect you properly.
Do Store Condoms Properly
Keep condoms in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and sharp objects. Don’t store them in your wallet for a long time, as friction and heat might damage them.
Do Use Lubrication
Using a water-based lubricant can make sex more comfortable and reduce the risk of condom breakage.
But avoid oil-based lubricants like baby oil or petroleum jelly, as they can weaken the condom.
Do Handle Condoms Carefully
Open the condom package carefully to avoid tearing the condom. Pinch the tip of the condom to leave space for semen when putting it on.
Do Check for Air Bubbles
While putting on the condom, ensure no air bubbles are trapped inside. Air bubbles might cause the condom to break during sex.
Do Remove the Condom Properly
After ejaculation, hold the base of the condom firmly and withdraw the penis while it’s still erect. It helps prevent the condom from slipping off.
Don’t Use Expired Condoms
Using an expired condom can reduce effectiveness, making it less reliable in preventing STIs and unwanted pregnancies.
Don’t Use Sharp Objects
Avoid using scissors, teeth, or anything sharp to open the condom package, as it might damage the condom inside.
Don’t Wear Two Condoms at Once
Wearing two condoms together, also known as “double-bagging,” can increase friction and cause them to tear. Always use one condom at a time.
Don’t Use Oil-Based Products
Oil-based lubricants like baby oil, lotion, or petroleum jelly can damage latex condoms, making them more likely to break.
Don’t Flush Condoms
Never flush condoms down the toilet. Dispose of them properly in the trash. Flushing condoms can cause plumbing problems and harm the environment.
Don’t Reuse Condoms
Using the same condom more than once is unsafe and ineffective. Always use a new condom for each sexual activity.
Myths and Facts on Using Condoms!
Now, let’s bust some common myths surrounding condom usage:
Myth 1: Condoms Reduce Sexual Pleasure
Modern condoms maximize pleasure while providing adequate protection. They come in various thin and sensitive materials, like ultra-thin latex or polyurethane, which allow for increased sensation during sexual activity.
You should explore different brands and types of condoms to find the one that suits you.
Myth 2: Double Condoms Offer Extra Protection
It is a dangerous misconception and is, in fact, counterproductive.
Using two condoms simultaneously, also known as “double bagging,” increases the risk of friction between the two layers, which can lead to condom breakage.
The added friction weakens the condoms, making them more likely to tear or slip during intercourse.
Instead of doubling up, you should know how to use condoms correctly and ensure the one you use fits on the erect penis.
Myth 3: Condoms Are Not Necessary If the Partner is on Birth Control
While it’s true that hormonal birth control methods, like pills, patches, or intrauterine devices (IUDs), are effective at preventing pregnancy, they do not protect against STIs.
Condoms, on the other hand, act as a dual-purpose barrier method that not only reduces the risk of unplanned pregnancies but also offers a protective barrier against STIs.
Myth 4: Condoms are 100% effective at preventing pregnancy and STIs
While condoms are highly effective when used correctly and consistently, they are not 100% foolproof.
Condoms have a typical use failure rate of about 13% for preventing pregnancy, which means that in real life, some pregnancies can still occur.
The key to maximizing their effectiveness is to use them correctly every time, from start to finish, during each sexual encounter.
Regarding STI protection, condoms significantly reduce the risk of transmission, but they may not provide complete protection against all infections.
Final Thoughts on How to Use Condoms Effectively!
Although condoms are highly effective when used correctly, no method is 100% foolproof. Consider combining condom use with other forms of contraception for added protection.
If you have any concerns or questions about condom usage or sexual health, don’t hesitate to consult a qualified sexologist via Healthwire.
